Doha, Qatar – A group of Queen’s University students found themselves unexpectedly stranded in Doha this weekend as escalating tensions in the Middle East led to widespread airspace closures and significant flight disruptions. The students were en route to Toronto following a field course in Sri Lanka when their Qatar Airways flight was forced to turn back mid-air, joining a growing number of travelers impacted by the rapidly evolving situation.
The disruption stems from a series of escalating events, beginning with major strikes by the United States and Israel on targets within Iran. In response, Iran launched missiles into Israel and neighboring Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Qatar, prompting an immediate shutdown of airspace across the region, according to reports.
Claire Haffner, a fourth-year biology student at Queen’s University, described the unsettling experience. “After being in the air for an hour and a half, there was an announcement that the airspace was closed and we had to turn back,” she said. Upon returning to Doha’s airport, Haffner recounted a “chaotic scene” with large crowds and lengthy lines as passengers attempted to rebook flights.
Airspace Closures and Travel Chaos
The sudden closure of airspace has created a ripple effect, impacting flights across the Middle East, and beyond. As reported by the Western Standard, the situation has left many travelers, including the Queen’s University students, in a state of uncertainty. The immediate impact has been widespread cancellations and delays for flights traveling to and from the affected region, including those originating in Canada.
Haffner described the initial reaction among her classmates as one of panic. “There was an initial panic among me and my classmates,” she said. “Everybody rushed off the plane in a big mob… Everybody is dealing with it differently, but we’re all overwhelmed.” The group was initially told they would not be departing Doha on Saturday night, leaving them to seek accommodations and await further instructions.
University Response and Support
Queen’s University has confirmed We see in direct contact with the faculty leaders accompanying the students. “We recognize that this situation may be distressing for the students and their families, and their safety and well-being is our top priority,” the university said in a statement. The university has partnered with International SOS to provide 24-hour multilingual support, including assistance with flight arrangements, to those affected.
The university confirmed the group is currently safe and receiving assistance at the airport. They are actively monitoring the situation and working to facilitate the students’ return to Canada as soon as airspace reopens and flights grow available.
Regional Tensions and Travel Advisories
The current travel disruptions are a direct consequence of heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The recent exchange of strikes between the United States and Israel against Iranian targets, followed by Iran’s retaliatory missile launches, has created a volatile security environment. Global Affairs Canada has updated its travel advisories for Canadians traveling to and from Gulf nations, including Israel, Bahrain, Jordan, Qatar, Syria, and the United Arab Emirates, warning of “ongoing military activity” in the region.
The situation remains fluid, and the reopening of airspace is dependent on a de-escalation of tensions. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates on flight schedules and potential disruptions. The uncertainty has prompted some students to purchase local SIM cards to maintain communication with family back home, as Haffner noted.
Despite the challenging circumstances, Haffner expressed a sense of cautious optimism. “We are in a safe place, the airport feels like a safe space,” she said. “I am remarkably lucky to be travelling with these classmates and my professor.”
Looking Ahead
As of Sunday, March 1, 2026, the Queen’s University students remain in Doha awaiting further guidance. The university continues to work closely with International SOS and airline partners to secure alternative travel arrangements. The immediate priority is the safety and well-being of the students, and the university is committed to providing ongoing support throughout this challenging period. Passengers and families are encouraged to monitor updates from Global Affairs Canada and their respective airlines for the latest information regarding flight availability and airspace restrictions.
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